WASHINGTON — Most people take precautions to limit sun exposure and potential skin cancer, but are you familiar with what actually causes sunburn?
SciShow recently posted a new video explaining the process, and breaking down the differences between UVA, UVB and UVC radiation.
UVA is mostly responsible for your tan, the video explains. When your skin detects this type of radiation, receptors produce cells called melanocytes. These produce extra melanin, which results in a darker skin color.
“Melanin’s real job is to absorb UV radiation before it can damage too many of your skin cells,” the video’s host says.
When UVB radiation damages a cell’s DNA, it will often destroy itself through a process known as apoptosis. This can prompt an immune response — sunburn.
Watch SciShow’s full video below:
h/t: Huffington Post
